PFAS requirements are becoming increasingly complex at an international level
Due to their technical properties, PFAS are used in a wide range of products, including textiles, clothing, food-contact materials, packaging, household goods, sports equipment and electrical and electronic products. At the same time, PFAS are being regulated or restricted in an increasing number of markets. The requirements vary depending on the region, product group and substances in question. This creates a growing need for companies to have reliable information on the composition of their products and to provide verifiable evidence to customers and business partners.

“The dynamic nature of PFAS regulation is presenting companies worldwide with new challenges. Independent testing and certification provide a robust basis for transparently documenting PFAS-related product properties and addressing specific market requirements,” says Benedikt Hendan, Senior Product Specialist for the testing of chemicals and textiles at TÜV SÜD.

Independent testing and production monitoring
The TÜV SÜD PFAS Certification Mark confirms that a product has been tested in accordance with the defined certification programme. This is based on the PPP/TRF 25207 testing programme, which was developed by TÜV SÜD and comprises a total fluorine test, as well as a targeted analysis of selected PFAS. The results are then assessed against the certification programme requirements.

Production monitoring is also an essential part of the certification process. In addition to product testing, regular monitoring or inspection of the manufacturing process is required for the certification mark to be awarded. The certification therefore goes beyond a one-off laboratory test.

The validity of the test relates to the specific samples or components examined, the defined list of analytes, the test methods used and the specified reporting limits.

Suitable for numerous product groups
The PFAS Certification Mark can be used for various product groups. These include, among others:

• Softline products such as clothing, footwear, accessories and home textiles
• Hardline products such as furniture, sports equipment, tools, toys, children’s products and household goods
• Food contact materials
• Electrical and electronic products
• Personal protective equipment and packaging

The certification programme covers a wide range of products and helps companies substantiate PFAS-related claims through independent third-party testing.

PFAS expertise for global markets
TÜV SÜD has an international network of testing laboratories and experts specialising in chemical testing and PFAS. The services offered range from the targeted analysis of specific PFAS and the determination of total fluorine content to certification, supply chain risk management, and root cause analysis in the event of abnormal test results.

The TÜV SÜD PFAS Certification Mark provides companies with an independent way to substantiate PFAS-related product claims, strengthen transparency for customers and other stakeholders, and address PFAS-related requirements across international markets. For manufacturers, brands and retailers, this can provide greater confidence when communicating about their products and managing PFAS-related requirements across the supply chain.

Further information:

• tuvsud.com/en/services/testing/pfas-testing
• tuvsud.com/en/customer-hub/ps-cert/certification-mark-for-pfas-test